Humic acid application affects photosynthesis, root development, and nutrient content of creeping bentgrass
1998
Humic acids (HA) reportedly enhance the growth of numerous crops; however, little information is available as to their effects on turfgrasses. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of a commercial preparation of HA on the photosynthesis, chlorophyll concentration, rooting, and nutrient content of 'Crenshaw' creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L). Bentgrass plugs were grown hydroponically in one-quarter-strength Hoagland's nutrient solution containing HA at 0, 100, 200, or 400 mg(.)L-1 with measurements made weekly for 1 month. The photosynthetic rates of plants growing in 100 or 200 mg(.)L-1 rarely differed from that of the control, but 400 mg(.)L-1 significantly enhanced net photosynthesis on all four observation dates. Chlorophyll content was unaffected by HA rate on all observation dates. Root dehydrogenase (DH) activity and root mass regrowth were significantly increased by HA at 400 mg(.)L-1 on all dates. The 100 and 200 mg(.)L-1 rates increased root DH activity on two of four observation dates, but root regrowth was unaffected. At one or more of the rates used, HA increased tissue concentrations of Mg, Mn, and S and decreased those of Ca, Cu, and N, but had no influence on the concentrations of P, K, Fe, Mo, and Zn.
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